TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
For the week ending February 9, 2008, feeder steer prices at Texas auctions were up $4.31 per hundredweight from the previous week. Fed cattle prices were also higher as increased beef prices boosted packer margins. Sheep and goat prices rose as processors line up supplies for the spring holidays.

Prices for pine sawlogs declined as a weakened housing market reduced demand. Pine pulpwood prices set a record high on strong demand for pulp and paper. As for futures markets, feeder cattle and finished cattle were lower, while cotton, corn, wheat and lumber were higher. Little precipitation was recorded anywhere in the state, with some scattered showers in East Texas. The winter wheat crop continues to struggle because of the lack of moisture and rates in fair to very poor condition. Field preparations for spring planting are underway in many areas.